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HSE calls for volunteer construction companies to test
occupational health model
With the aim of reducing ill health in
construction the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are calling for small and
medium enterprises to take part in a pilot project.
The construction industry is one of the
largest in the UK, employing up to 2 million people. Collectively costing up
to £180m a year, it is estimated that 96,000 workers whose current or most
recent job was in construction suffered from ill-health caused or made worse
by their work.
Based on these figures the Health and Safety
Executive (HSE) has developed an Occupational Health Management Model (OHMM)
providing advice to construction companies on how to manage issues such as
manual handling, hand arm vibration, noise induced hearing loss and
dermatitis.
The model is currently being piloted with
companies who have signed up to test the model, which is in the form of a
flow chart. But more are needed to effectively evaluate the models content,
structure and to provide feedback. Those testing the model will be able to
look at their current health management processes and decide what, if any,
changes need to be implemented. All pilotees will be provided with a
detailed paper explaining the OHMM in detail, a CD containing a draft of the
OHMM, contact details for ongoing HSE support and a confidential baseline
questionnaire.
Any company wanting more information before
signing up to test the model, which is avaliable on line, at
www.bomelconsult.com/HSE/OHMM.htm or by email from
angela.starkey@hse.gsi.gov.uk
can contact Sue Parkyn or Kate Goodwin-Foster on 01582 444200.
Public Enquiries : HSE
InfoLine, Tel: 0845 345 0055, visit:
www.hse.gov.uk/contact or write to: HSE InfoLine, Caerphilly Business
Park, Caerphilly CF83 3GG.
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